Jordan Smith

      At the Joshua Project we would meet with the boys to discuss try and act as mentors for these boys who have had some tough beginnings. These boys aren't ones that seem to have pent up anger thought, all of them were shooting to do something impressive in their future. "ABCD builds on the assets that are already found in the community and mobilizes individuals, associations, and institutions to come together to build on their assets-- not concentrate on their needs" (Center for Civic Engagement, "What is Asset Based Community Development (ABCD). This saying is very reflective oh how working with these young men was, they didn't look to stay in the past but they showed the want to build for a better future. From going to Georgetown to study music engineering to being a millionaire they all had goals with little plans to be held back. We accomplished meeting with the kids, establishing a base head with the program for an expanded role with the boys as well as seeing some of the shortcomings the program has that can be fixed or expedited in the future. This program offers an innovative approach to helping these young men in need of a guiding presence, it offers them a chance to do so while being guided by younger mentors that can relate more to them then someone no where near their age. Also the way they preach value of self to these young men is inspiring, "Social capital is defined by the OECD as “networks together with shared norms, values and understandings that facilitate co-operation within or among groups" ("OECD Insights: Human Capital"). They try to ensure they see the value that can come to them through working towards their goals. This got to me because it made just remember that there isn't a reason for me to not succeed or feel I can because many have access to fewer resources and still maintain a positive sense of direction.